By Amanda L
KUCHING, July 7: Sarawak’s ambition to launch its first satellite by 2030 will hinge on developing a multidisciplinary workforce with expertise spanning electronics, software engineering, information technology and data analysis needed to drive the State’s emerging space industry.
Deputy Minister for Education, Innovation and Talent Development (MEITD) Datuk Dr Annuar Rapaee said building a satellite requires far more than aerospace engineers, describing it as a collaborative effort involving specialists from multiple fields.
Speaking to reporters after attending the Satellite Maverick Launching Interview with Irfan Annuar at Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus today, he revealed plans to bring Sarawakian satellite engineer Irfan Annuar to other universities after his return from the United States on July 15 to inspire more students to explore careers in the sector.
“As you heard just now, satellite is not a one-man show. It is multidisciplinary, from electronic engineers to software, computers, IT and even cameras. There is also data analysis. We can obtain a lot of data from space, but how do we interpret it and make use of it for the future and for the economy?” he said.
The initiative comes as Sarawak steps up preparations for its goal of launching its first satellite by 2030, with universities expected to play a central role in producing the skilled workforce needed to support the industry.
Annuar noted that i-CATS University College has already established an aerospace engineering faculty, while institutions such as Swinburne can contribute through their strengths in electrical and electronic engineering, software engineering and other related disciplines.
He was also encouraged by the enthusiasm shown by Swinburne students during the session, saying the technical questions posed reflected growing interest in the field.
The multidisciplinary nature of satellite development was echoed by Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus Pro Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive Officer Ir Professor Lau Hieng Ho, who said expertise in electrical and electronic engineering, robotics, mechatronics and software engineering would all be essential in supporting Sarawak’s space ambitions.
Asked whether Swinburne could play a leading role in developing talent for the industry, Annuar said that the university would definitely contribute in terms of workforce development.
That view was reinforced by Irfan, who shared insights into the development of CubeSat Maverick, a satellite scheduled to launch aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket.
Rather than relying solely on aerospace engineers, he explained that the project brought together around 50 students over four years, with about 10 engineers leading the final year-and-a-half of integration across six major subsystems, including communications, onboard software, guidance and navigation, power systems and payload development.
For students hoping to follow a similar path, Irfan encouraged them to first build a solid foundation in electronics.
“CubeSats are essentially stacks of printed circuit boards. Going into engineering is the obvious pathway, but more importantly, you need to believe that you can actually build something like this.
“When I first looked at satellites, I thought they were the most advanced things imaginable. But once you understand them, they’re actually much simpler than people think. That made me believe Sarawak can absolutely do this because many engineering disciplines are transferable into satellite and subsystem design,” he said.
He also expressed confidence that Sarawak’s 2030 target is within reach, saying the State already possesses the engineering talent needed to build its own CubeSat.
“What we need now is a clear plan and vision. The engineering talent already exists here. If we put everything together, I believe Sarawak can build this industry right here at home, and that’s something I’m very excited to be part of,” he added. — DayakDaily
